Expanding Access and Equity at Sherbrook Pool
Council Motion – June 26, 2025
By Councillor Cindy Gilroy
At the June 26, 2025 City Council meeting, I brought forward a motion to address a growing need in our community: equitable access to fitness facilities at Sherbrook Pool.
Sherbrook Pool has seen a welcome increase in participation, especially in its aquatic programs. It is clear that residents value this historic inner city facility as a community hub for health, recreation, and connection. But while the pool itself is well used, the fitness and weight room areas remain underutilized.
Why? In large part because the fees are significantly higher than at comparable facilities such as the Freight House Recreation Centre, and the equipment is older.
That is why this motion calls for the Public Service to review and reduce the fitness and weight room fees at Sherbrook Pool to match those at Freight House. By lowering the cost barrier, we can better support active lifestyles for people of all ages and abilities, including those who may not want to swim but are seeking a welcoming and affordable place to work out.
Here is why this matters:
- Fair and affordable fitness access helps promote health and wellness, particularly for families, seniors, and residents living on fixed incomes.
- Shared use encourages community connection. For example, a parent might use the treadmill while their child attends swim lessons, maximizing the value of the visit and creating a multi purpose space that truly works for families.
- Located in the heart of the city, Sherbrook Pool is accessible by foot, bike, and transit, making it especially important that we ensure all amenities inside are equally accessible and affordable.
The motion also directs the Public Service to monitor and report back on usage trends after the fee change, ensuring we understand the impact and continue to adapt to community needs.
This is about more than fitness. It is about inclusion, opportunity, and making sure our public spaces serve all Winnipeggers equitably. When we remove financial barriers, we create a more vibrant, active, and connected city.
Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories and ideas for making Sherbrook Pool a more inclusive space. Your voices matter, and your advocacy helps shape the direction of our city. Let us continue to work together to make Sherbrook Pool, and all City facilities, accessible, welcoming, and well used by everyone.
